Erin go Bragh, Boston! Our favorite green holiday resumes this week after last year’s festivities were sorely missed. Plenty of bars and restaurants are hosting their own celebrations this year, which you can discover here, but if you feel like simply enjoying a local Irish pub, check out our favorites here:
1. Sólás, Back Bay
Nestled into the Lenox Hotel on Boylston Street, this modern Irish pub in the heart of Boston is perfect for cozying up with a few pints of Guinness and some tasty pub fare. Check out their St. Patrick’s Day specials, including Corned Beef & Cheddar Fritters and Bangers & Mash.
Find it at 710 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116.
2. The Black Rose, Faneuil Hall
Located just steps away from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, The Black Rose is one of Boston’s oldest and most traditional Irish pubs. This pub is best known for its live Irish music, which always turns out to be a roaring good time. At the Black Rose, you’ll find endless pints of Guinness poured by bartenders from authentic brogues, excellent pub fare, and plenty of Irish coffee to go around this St. Patrick’s Day!
Find it at 160 State St, Boston, MA 02109.
3. The Druid, Cambridge
A regular hangout spot for locals and an institution of Inman Square, The Druid offers a traditional Irish pub experience all the way from the pints of Guinness to its dark wood décor and live music.
Find it at 1357 Cambridge St, Cambridge.
4. Mr. Dooley’s, Waterfront
A staple of Boston’s waterfront bar scene, Mr. Dooley’s has been a popular hangout spot for journalists and politicians alike since the early 90s. “A great place for a pint and a chat,” as the pub so accurately describes itself, it offers entertainment all week long along with authentic Irish pub fare — it even has Kerrygold butter. Mr. Dooley’s is serving corned beef on their menus for St. Patrick’s Day, so it’s a great spot to get your fix!
Find it at 77 Broad St, Boston, MA 02109.
5. The Burren, Davis Square
One of the most popular Irish bars on the other side of the Charles, The Burren has been serving pints upon pints of Guinness for the last 25 years. This year, the pub is back with its classic Irish music and celebrations, and you can enjoy as many pints, corn beef and Irish music as your heart desires.
Find it at 247 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144.
6. J.J. Foley’s Café, South End
Founded back in 1909 by the Foley family, this South Boston pub has really stood the test of time. It has been serving patrons for over 100 through the best and worst times of history and continues to be a major staple of Boston’s Irish scene. On its menu, you’ll find an extensive list of seasonal offerings along with creative daily specials and a comprehensive list of brews, wines and spirits that includes Guinness, of course. J.J. Foley’s is currently open for indoor seating and its Fay St. patio is also now open for dining.
Find it at 117 E Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02118.
7. Brendan Behan Pub, Jamaica Plain
Named after the famous Irish playwright, this Jamaica Plain pub has been voted ‘Best Irish Bar In Boston’ four times by the Boston Magazine since its opening in 1988. Here you may not find any food on the menu, but this small, no-frills pub is perfect for grabbing a few pints with your friends. If you’re feeling peckish, bar owners encourage their patrons to bring their own food, so you can grab some on the go from the local take out spots! Just note that the Brendan Behan is cash-only, so go green for St. Paddy’s Day!
Find it at 378 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.